Little girl smiling wearing a santa hat at the dentist.

Stocking Stuffers For Healthy Teeth

December 7, 2018
The holidays are approaching, and that means it’s time to shop for treats and presents for the people we love! Often times, these treats aren’t the healthiest choices for our teeth, which is why we’ve put together some suggestions for more dental-friendly goodies to stuff in those stockings — as well as some things to avoid.

Stocking Stuffer No-Nos

Avoid things like sticky and chewing candy, like taffy and gumdrops. These chewy treats are dangerous because they stick to teeth and can pull out fillings. If you don’t floss enough, the sugar can stay between the teeth and accumulate. Likewise, avoid hard candies and sour candies, as these allow sugar to stay in prolonged contact with your teeth. Sour candies are highly acidic and can break down tooth enamel.

The Dentist’s Picks

Dental-friendly stocking stuffers that your family will love include peppermint flavored candies or beverages! Peppermint not only helps you get into the holiday spirit, but also aids digestion. Other options could be things such as gingerbread cookies or chocolate! Gingerbread cookies tend to have less sugar than other holiday goods, and chocolate contains bone-strengthening calcium!

Wishing All Our Patients A Happy, Healthy Holiday Season!

Of course, another option would be to avoid edible stocking stuffers altogether, in favor of small toys and games that will take your children’s minds completely off their sweet tooth cravings. No matter what goes in those stockings, though, don’t forget to keep up with all those good brushing and flossing habits through the holiday season. We look forward to seeing you at your next cleaning appointments! To schedule your next cleaning, contact our Joplin dental office at (417) 553-9300.

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